Wall Framing Calculator

Studs, plates, headers and a cut list for one wall.

Project Details
Enter your measurements and requirements
$
Results
Calculated estimates for your project
Studs to order25 (22 plus 10%)
Stud length91.5 in
Plates60 ft, 4 x 16 ft boards
Header starting size2-2x6
Header checked againstIRC 2021 R602.7, not yet reviewed by a licensed professional
Estimated lumber cost$165

Turn these numbers into a build plan.

  • 25 studs
  • 60 ft plates
  • 2-2x6 header start
Materials List
Recommended materials and quantities
Studs22 at 91.5 in
Top and bottom plates3 at 20 ft runs
Header pieces2 at 39 in
Jack studs2 at header bottom height

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Project plan · built from your numbers

Frame a 20 ft wall

8 ft bearing wall, studs at 16 in on center, 1 opening.

Materials
$165
Time
1 weekend
Level
Intermediate
5 steps 5 tools 4 materials
  1. 1

    Confirm the wall's job

    Find out whether the wall carries load and ask your building department about a permit.

  2. 2

    Lay out the plates

    Mark stud centers at 16 in on the plates, plus corners and openings.

  3. 3

    Build the openings

    Assemble king studs, jacks, header and cripples for each opening.

01 · Your numbers
Studs
25
Plates
60 ft
Header start
2-2x6
Est. cost
$165
02 · The plan

5 steps · 5 tools · 4 materials

2 more steps, the full tool list and a shopping list you can check off as you go.

03 · Finished

Your plan is 60% built. Save it.

3/5

Frame a 20 ft wall

Finished in 1 weekend · $165 DIY

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How to count studs for a wall

Header sizes here are trade starting points, not a design. The framing guide explains wall anatomy.

  1. Count common studs. Wall length in inches divided by spacing, plus one.
  2. Add corners and tees. Add two studs at each corner and intersection.
  3. Add openings. Each opening needs two king and two jack studs, less the studs it replaces.
  4. Add plates. Plan one bottom plate and a double top plate.

Frequently asked questions

How many studs do I need for a 20 ft wall?

At 16 in on center that is 16 common studs. With two corners and one 36 in door the count is 22, so order 25.

How long is a precut stud for an 8 ft wall?

Common precuts are 92-5/8 in. This calculator subtracts 4.5 in of plate from the wall height to give the stud length.

What size header do I need?

It depends on span, load and building width, so treat the size shown as a starting point and confirm it with your building department or an engineer.

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